Last night, long-time friend of the Comic Strip Live!, the hilarious Tom Cotter blew the panel of judges away and was rewarded with fantastically kind words, resounding audience applause and a trip to the next round on NBC’s “America’s Got Talent.”

A 23-year veteran of the stand up world with prior credits including “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno,” “Comedy Central Presents: Tom Cotter,” CBS’s “The Late Late Show” and “Last Comic Standing,” Cotter will be the first to admit he’s not yet a household name. But after last night’s amazing display of timing, writing and persistence at his craft, eyes around the world are sure to focus on the humble jokesmith from New England.

Congratulations Tom! You’ve earned this. Best wishes moving forward to the next round in Las Vegas (a place where Tom once WON the prestigious Las Vegas Comedy Festival!)